Determination of VOCs by USEPA Method 8260 with Extended Dynamic Range using Fast, Sensitive Capillary GC/MS

The USEPA has developed and published multiple methods for the analysis of organic environmental pollutants, including Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), while standardizing on single-quadrupole gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). USEPA Method 8260 is by far the most comprehensive method in terms of the number of VOCs included in the compound list, with as many as 100 or more RCRA compounds slated for testing. The method is used to determine VOCs in a variety of solid waste matrices, is applicable to nearly all types of samples, and is one of the most common VOC methods used by commercial testing laboratories today. This poster describes the effects of recent instrument improvements and method modifications on sensitivity for USEPA Method 8260. An extended calibration range minimizes the number of dilutions and re-analyses that are required for high-concentration compounds, while still reaching the required low detection limits. Analytical operating conditions including BFB tune parameters, calibration details, and a complete MDL and Precision and Accuracy study for almost 100 target compounds over an extended calibration range are described.